More and more businesses in the medical industry or looking into or are already purchasing pre-owned medical equipment. There are many medical businesses that actually prefer to purchase used medical equipment, and many experts are saying this trend is only expected to grow in the future. The financial benefits of purchasing pre-owned equipment are hard for most to resist. However, there are a few things that you should consider and be wary of before purchasing any pre-owned medical equipment.
When properly refurbished, medical equipment can look and work just as good as new equipment. Some may even last as long as new equipment, especially if you keep them properly maintained. And, all of this can come at a fraction of the cost; however, you must be careful. One wrong move and all of those savings you once had can cost you big in the long run. This option affects more than just your finances. It will affect the lives of each and every one of your patients. Remember malfunctioning medical equipment could possibly lead to a patient’s death. This lets you know how important it is to do all of your research and be absolutely certain in your decision of purchasing this type of equipment. Here are a few things to research before purchasing this equipment:
Certified Pre-Owned Medical Equipment. Purchasing certified-pre-owned medical equipment is always your best bet. This type of equipment comes with specific certifications and qualifications, which lets you know that you are purchasing only top-notch equipment that is working as it should. Of course, it is your responsibility to ensure that the equipment you are purchasing comes with these qualifications. Normally, the seller puts the equipment through a thorough inspection to ensure that it exceeds or meets certain standards. If the equipment needs repairs or adjustments, these should be done before the sale and will follow the original manufacturer’s specifications. This means that the equipment should perform just as well as new equipment. Most will even come with warranties; however, you should always confirm and get in writing what type of guarantees and warranties your seller offers.
Installation, Maintenance, and Repairs. It is up to you to know for certain what you are paying for. Some pre-owned equipment will come with perks that others do not. You should talk to your seller to discover all that they offer. You should always ask if they offer any type of installation. Remember to ask if the price includes installation, or is it extra? Unfortunately, you may find that some do not even offer installation. You will also need to ask if they will come out and help train your staff on how to properly use the equipment and if they have someone available to come out to perform routine maintenance on the equipment. Remember some of these services may cost extra. It is your responsibility to inquire about prices before you purchase the equipment. Some sellers may even provide loaner equipment if your original piece of equipment has to be repaired. Not everyone offers these same perks. Remember to look into everything provided with your equipment, get everything in writing, and store the paperwork where it is easily accessible.
Brand Names. When purchasing pre-owned medical equipment, it is best to opt for the most popular brand names. You must do your research to discover which name brand products are the best of the best for each particular piece of medical equipment you must purchase. By opting for a brand name, you will be able to know a little about what type of equipment you are purchasing and will be less likely to purchase something that is defective. Also, when your customers see a name brand piece of equipment, they may feel a little more at ease knowing that you are using top-quality equipment on them. Remember you must do your research on each and every brand you are considering. Unfortunately, you cannot simply take the seller’s word on the reliability and productivity of the product, but you can easily research a brand name or even model to discover what others are saying about it. So, take your time and do all of the necessary research to help ensure that you are making the best possible decision for you, your business, and your clients.
Level of refurbishment. There are multiple levels of refurbishment you need to be familiar with. By knowing these different levels, you can rest just a little bit easier with the piece of equipment you choose to purchase. Here is a list of the different levels of refurbishment:
Reprocessed equipment. This type of pre-owned equipment is checked by professionals to see that it meets all the operational standards set by the manufacturer. One of the biggest perks of this type of equipment is that it will be thoroughly cleaned, disinfected and sterilized before it gets to you.
Cosmetically refurbished equipment. This type of pre-owned equipment is checked to ensure it is fully operation per the manufacturer’s standards. It also comes to you sterilized, and it will be cosmetically restored to have the appearance of a new piece of equipment. This cosmetic refurbishment can give your clients a better sense of security. They see a nice new shiny piece of equipment (not used to them) and will ultimately feel a little more secure in doing business with your company.
Parts refurbished equipment. This type of pre-owned equipment will come cosmetically refurbished and with the parts replaced to help make certain that the equipment is fully operational. This allows you and your clients to rest assured that the equipment looks nice and also works as it should.
Fully refurbished equipment. This type of pre-owned equipment has been totally redone. Everything from the top to bottom will look and operate in the most pristine condition. The parts will be replaced with new or upgraded components. Then the equipment will be reassembled and tested to ensure that it is fully operational. It is also cosmetically refurbished, and it will have the look of a completely new piece of equipment.